Last month we reported on the importance of losing weight and staying healthy. But now that Spring Break has ended along with the worry of looking good in a bathing suit, it is time to gain those pounds back, and what better way than eating a one pound hamburger.
Cheeburger, Cheeburger, a new restaurant that opened on Siegen in the shopping mall by Target, invites its patrons to test the might of their stomachs and eat a fully-cooked one pound hamburger. The hamburger begins as a full 20-ounce hunk of meat, but when cooked, weighs in at 16-ounces.
If completely consumed, the eater will be recognized and have their picture posted on the wall of fame alongside a giant plush hamburger.
I was given the assignment to go to Cheeburger, Cheeburger and polish off one of these mammoth meat patties. Having been a frequent visitor to Chinese buffets and unlimited pancakes, I thought this meal would be a cakewalk — until I arrived.
The restaurant features a ’50s style diner theme, from the pink painted walls to the life-size cardboard cut-outs of James Dean and Elvis Presley lining the walls.
Oscar Evans, owner of the Siegen restaurant, came across the idea of managing a hamburger stand when stationed overseas in the army, his told his friend, “I’d rather flip burgers than do this stuff.”
The Cheeburger, Cheeburger chain started in Florida as an attempt to bring back the theme of old-style diners.
Its Web site, www.cheeburger.com, describes the diners as, “It’s the neighborhood hangout. It’s Bill’s Diner or Joe’s Café. It’s your place and mine.”
Evans believes the success of the restaurant’s style comes from the atmosphere and friendliness.
“We try to greet our customers and make sure they’re having a good experience,” Evans said. “We just want people to come out here and have a good time.”
A good time will be had until, for those brave enough to tackle the “Famous Pounder,” the time comes to devour the tremendous treat.
While waiting for my challenge to arrive, I was able to keep myself occupied with the set of Trivial Pursuit cards placed at every table.
When my burger came, I, and the others accompanying me who also decided to test their stomach’s space, found myself rethinking this plan.
The burger arrives with a diameter of approximately six inches, enough to hold four pieces of cheese, and a bun that one must eat should they desire the prize of a picture on the wall of fame.
“You have to eat it fast,” Evans told me as I ordered.
Keeping his words in mind, I tore through it, not stopping to think how much was left and how much further I had to eat.
After a valiant effort to devour the beast, I looked down and saw that I had conquered a full pound hamburger. With arms raised high the air, my accomplishment was announced all guests.
The overall dining experience is one that I shall remember for a while. Not only is the food superb and prices rather cheap, the atmosphere and friendliness within Cheeburger, Cheeburger is next to nothing else I have encountered.
In addition to featuring the one pound hamburger, their menu offers lesser-sized burgers, salads, sandwiches, and milkshakes.
But for those willing to try the one pounder, the only advice I can give you is this: Go hungry and never stop chewing.